Loony Foreign M/V Loon Loops into US Coastwise Trade Debate
Published Date: 4/23/2025
Notice
Summary
The Maritime Administration is asking for public comments on whether a foreign-built small passenger vessel, the M/V Loon, should be allowed to operate in U.S. coastal trade. This decision affects businesses using U.S.-built vessels and aims to protect American shipbuilders and operators. Comments are open until May 23, 2025, so speak up if you have thoughts on this!
Analyzed Economic Effects
2 provisions identified: 1 benefits, 1 costs, 0 mixed.
Potential adverse effect on U.S. shipbuilders
MARAD is deciding whether the foreign-built small passenger vessel M/V Loon may operate in U.S. coastwise trade carrying no more than 12 passengers for hire. MARAD will determine if that use would 'adversely affect' United States vessel builders or coastwise trade businesses that employ U.S.-built vessels; the agency is accepting comments through May 23, 2025.
Request could let M/V Loon enter coastwise trade
The owner of the foreign-built M/V Loon has submitted an eligibility determination request so the vessel could receive a U.S. coastwise trade endorsement to carry up to 12 passengers for hire. If MARAD determines the vessel's use will not adversely affect U.S. builders or coastwise businesses, the vessel could be authorized to operate in U.S. coastal trade (docket MARAD-2025-0038); comments are due May 23, 2025.
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Key Dates
Department and Agencies
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